Labial Aesthetic Surgical Intervention in A Patient with Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome

Abstract

Paralysis of the peripheral facial nerve, recurrent or persistent facial swelling, and fissured or geographic tongue constitute the triad of symptoms of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS). Facial paralysis spontaneously regresses without treatment, particularly during the early episodes. Geographic and fissured tongue does not need treatment. However, facial swelling may be persistent and difficult to manage. After several events, facial edema may become permanent, causing fibrosis and eventually pain. A 14-year-old girl was referred for evaluation of swelling on the upper lip. Besides this main complaint, she reported facial paralysis, and on oral examination, a fissured tongue was observed leading to the diagnosis of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Several applications of corticosteroids in the upper lip were performed, with temporary improvement. However, because of the persistence of swelling and concerns about aesthetics, surgical intervention was performed, with satisfactory results. The patient has been in follow-up for 1 year and has not shown any recurrence.